Travel Eye on Kalives (Crete, Greece)

Write a review or view peoples experiences in Kalives.	Hotels in Crete	Flights	Car Hire/Rental

Want to contribute to the writings of this travel guide? If so, Click here

Overview:

Kalives is a real village, not just a tourist invention and this is part of the charm of the place. The countryside around Kalives is one of the greenest in Crete and the backdrop of the White Mountains is beautiful.

Measuring ¾ ml by 500 yds and comprising 1 narrow main street with a few minor side streets, the village is largely untouched by commercial tourism, with locals (totalling around 3,000 residents) still gathering at the tavernas near the church, close to the river.

The pace is slow and relaxed, with an air of traditional village life and an agricultural focus.

The area caters for the mature couples, nature-lovers, walkers and those seeking traditional village life. There is 1 hotel, a few low-key apartment and studio blocks; rooms for rent in local houses.

Locality:

Kalives is on the north west coast, on Souda Bay, 10 mls SE of Chania, 13 mls S of Chania airport, 75 mls W of Heraklion and its airport. It is at the coastal end of a small, fertile river valley with rocky hills either side. Hugging the shoreline, with spectacular views of the sea to the north and the snow-capped White Mountains, which rise behind the village.

Entertainment/Facilities/Attractions/Things to do:

There is a good sandy beach, 600 yds long, with clear waters; the best swimming is close to the sheltered harbour.

For shopping the central street provides all the basics, such as a chemist, post office, bank, laundry, a couple of supermarkets, clothes, jewellery and souvenir shops; all fairly low-key.

Daytime activities consist of mainly beach, windsurfing and walks. The nightlife offers a dozen or so local tavernas with pleasant street terraces, plus a few lively bars in the side streets.

For food the tavernas offer a good range of local Cretan dishes, plus fresh seafood and a modest selection of international dishes; the local hotel offers more sophisticated dining beside the attractive river.